SKN praised for well-played game
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – FAILURE to convert numerous opportunities into goals has cost the St. Kitts-Nevis World Cup Football team a spot in the upcoming round of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers.
Nonetheless, the team has been praised for a well-played game.
Before a packed audience at the Warner Park Football Stadium, the ‘Sugar Boys’ went head-to-head against world-ranked 83rd-team Canada, which was also seeking a spot in the third round of the competition.
As was promised by coach Clinton ‘Tinny’ Percival, the team significantly dialed up its offensive strategy, taking most of the plays into Canada’s half of the field, challenging its competitor to prove its on-the-field dominance.
To advance to the next round, Canada needed to prevent St. Kitts-Nevis from finding the back of their nets. St. Kitts-Nevis, on the other hand, was required to win that game and the upcoming match to be played in Canada in order to advance.
From the sound of the starting whistle, St. Kitts-Nevis’ strategy and energy were evident, but try as the players did, Canada’s goalkeeper saw overwhelming success in keeping the ball from finding the back of the nets.
On commencement of the second half, both teams re-entered the field with obvious renewed energy and their strategies still in mind and heart.
The spectators, which comprised supporters of both teams, were kept on the edge of their seats as attempts at scoring goals had rapidly increased.
The end of the 90th minute would have ordinarily signalled the end of the game but, with three minutes extra time, both teams still had that final opportunity to score the match’s first and possibly only goal. However, it was not to be and the match concluded nil-all.
President of the St. Kitts-Nevis Football Association (SKNFA) Anthony Johnson told SKNVibes that although the result of the game was disappointing, the performance of the St. Kitts-Nevis team is worthy of commendation.
“Even though we were very disappointed that we did not achieve a victory – which is what we were aiming for – we certainly were very impressed with the standard of play by the St. Kitts-Nevis team.
“I think the fact that we dominated most of the game shows that we certainly have great talent, determination, commitment and fortitude that was shown by the players on the field. I think it is a good sign for the future and can certainly help the players and the sport in our Federation.”
The St. Kitts-Nevis team, SKNVibes understands, left the Federation this morning (Nov. 12) bound for Canada where they are scheduled to again go up against the Canadian team.
That match is scheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 2011, and regardless of the outcome, Canada will be the advancing team.
